Communication is an integral part of our daily lives at Arise Physical Therapy however, we've noticed that its effectiveness greatly depends on the level of trust and credibility we establish with others. As part of our goal to INSPIRE, EDUCATE and TRANSFORM, our team have begun reading a book called "The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication" by John C. Maxwell. The ultimate goal is to improve our communication skills, develop relationships with our patients and serve our community. In this blog we will dive into the Law of Credibility and explore practical ways to enhance our credibility in communication.
"People don't want perfect communicators but they do want authentic ones"
Law of Credibility
This law emerges as a crucial principle for successful communication. This law highlights the significance of credibility in building trust and establishing meaningful connections.
The Law of Credibility centers around the idea that trust is the foundation of effective communication. Credibility refers to the level of trust and believability others attribute to our words, actions, and character. When we communicate with credibility, our messages carry more weight and have a greater chance of resonating with others. Without credibility, our communication may fall flat or be met with skepticism.
Building Credibility:
Authenticity: Authenticity is the cornerstone of credibility. Being true to oneself and expressing genuine thoughts and emotions fosters trust. Avoid pretense or trying to be someone you're not. Embrace your uniqueness and let your true self shine through in your communication.
Honesty and Transparency: Honesty is a fundamental aspect of credibility. Be truthful in your words and actions. Avoid exaggerations, half-truths, or deception. Transparency builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Competence and Expertise: Demonstrating competence and expertise in your field enhances credibility. Invest in continuous learning and stay updated with industry trends. Share your knowledge and insights when appropriate, providing value to others through your expertise.
Consistency: Consistency in words and actions is vital for building credibility. When your behavior aligns with your words, it reinforces trust. Inconsistencies breed doubt and erode credibility. Strive to be consistent in your communication and follow through on your commitments.
Active Listening and Empathy: Active listening is a powerful tool for building credibility. Show genuine interest in others' perspectives and listen attentively. Empathize with their feelings and experiences. When people feel heard and understood, they trust your intentions and credibility.
"Nothing is easier than saying words. Nothing is harder than living them"
Maintaining Credibility:
Integrity: Upholding integrity is essential for maintaining credibility. Adhere to ethical principles and moral values. Act consistently with your beliefs and values even when faced with challenging situations. Your integrity will be noticed and respected by others.
Deliver on Promises: To maintain credibility, it is crucial to deliver on the promises you make. Consistently fulfill your commitments and obligations. Reliability and dependability build trust and reinforce your credibility.
Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and admit mistakes when you make them. Being accountable demonstrates humility and integrity. It allows others to see you as trustworthy and credible, even in challenging circumstances.
Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal cues play a significant role in credibility. Maintain good eye contact, use open and confident body language, and speak with clarity and conviction. Ensure your non-verbal cues align with your verbal message to enhance credibility.
Build Relationships: Strong relationships are built on trust, and credibility is an integral part of trust. Invest time and effort in building meaningful connections with others. Show genuine care, support, and reliability in your interactions. Nurturing relationships fosters credibility.
"People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care"
Conclusion:
The Law of Credibility emphasizes that trust is the foundation of effective communication. By consciously developing and maintaining credibility, we enhance the impact of our messages, build stronger relationships, and foster mutual understanding. Authenticity, honesty, competence, consistency, active listening, and empathy are key elements in cultivating credibility. Remember, credibility takes time to establish but can be easily eroded, so it requires ongoing effort and commitment. Embracing the Law of Credibility enables us to become influential communicators and build lasting connections in various aspects of our lives.
Come down to the clinic so we can show you how much we care and how we can help you get back to living a pain-free life. You can also book an appointment by CLICKING HERE .